Communication method and device

Abstract

Provided are a communication method and device, a first access network device sending a first message to a first network element, the first message being used for acquiring address information of a second access network device, the second access network device satisfying a first condition; and the first access network equipment receives the address information of the second access network equipment from the first network element. In the embodiment, the first access network equipment can obtain the address information of the access network equipment meeting the first condition from the first network element, that is, the operation and maintenance management network element can configure the related information of the first network element in the first access network equipment, so that the first access network equipment can find the first network element, and the operation and maintenance management efficiency is improved. The address information of the access network equipment meeting the first condition does not need to be configured, so that the workload can be reduced, and the address information configuration error of the access network equipment can be avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a communication method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In wireless mobile communication systems, the Xn interface serves as the interface between access network devices. The Xn interface can be used for functions such as exchanging control plane information between two access network devices, supporting terminal handover between wireless access network devices, and supporting dual-connectivity data transmission. One method for establishing an Xn connection (an Xn connection refers to a connection at the Xn protocol layer) is as follows: First, the first access network device establishes a TNL connection with the second access network device based on the second access network device's transport network layer (TNL) information (e.g., IP address and port number). The second access network device's TNL information is pre-configured in the first access network device. Then, the first access network device sends an Xn Setup Request to the second access network device, including relevant information about the first access network device. Upon receiving the Xn Setup Request, the second access network device sends an Xn Setup Response to the first access network device, including relevant information about the second access network device. At this point, the first and second access network devices have established an Xn connection.

[0003] Currently, when deploying a new access network device, network operators pre-configure the TNL information of other access network devices that establish Xn connections with the new access network device in the new access network device. In this way, the new access network device can establish Xn connections with other access network devices based on the Xn connection establishment method described above.

[0004] Which access network devices an access network device establishes Xn connections with is related to network planning. If a newly deployed access network device establishes Xn connections with a large number of other access network devices, a large amount of TNL information needs to be configured in the newly deployed access network device. This process is very tedious and may also result in configuration errors. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a communication method and apparatus for determining other access network devices that have established a communication connection with a certain access network device.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides a communication method, which can be executed by a first access network device, or by other devices including the functions of the first access network device, or by a chip system (which can also be replaced by a chip) or other functional module, wherein the chip system or functional module is capable of implementing the functions of the first access network device, and the chip system or functional module is, for example, disposed in the first access network device. The method includes: the first access network device sending a first message to a first network element, the first message being used to obtain address information of a second access network device, wherein the second access network device satisfies a first condition; and the first access network device receiving the address information of the second access network device from the first network element.

[0007] In this embodiment, the first access network device can obtain the address information of the access network device that meets the first condition from the first network element. In other words, the operation and maintenance management network element can configure the relevant information of the first network element in the first access network device so that the first access network device can find the first network element. There is no need to configure the address information of the access network device that meets the first condition, which can reduce the workload and avoid the address information configuration error of the access network device.

[0008] In one possible implementation, the first condition includes one or more of the following: being located in the same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device; supporting a first network slice, wherein the first network slice is a network slice supported by the first access network device; and belonging to a first neighboring group, wherein the first neighboring group is the neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs.

[0009] This implementation method allows setting multiple conditions to obtain the address information of access network devices that meet these conditions, enabling the establishment of communication connections with them and making it applicable to a wider range of business scenarios.

[0010] In one possible implementation, the area located in the same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device includes one or more of the following: located in the first tracking area where the first access network device is located; located in the tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area where the first access network device is located; located in the area managed by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) element where the first access network device is located; located in the first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located; and located in the radio access network notification area adjacent to the first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the first message includes information associated with the first condition.

[0012] In this implementation, the first access network device informs the first network element which access network device(s) meet which conditions. By carrying different information, the address information of access network devices that meet different conditions can be obtained, thus realizing the classification and acquisition of the address information of access network devices.

[0013] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first tracking area where the first access network device is located, and the first condition includes the second access network device being located in the first tracking area and / or in a tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area.

[0014] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the area managed by the AMF where the first access network device is located, and the first condition includes that the second access network device is located in the area managed by the AMF.

[0015] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located, and the first condition includes that the second access network device is located in the first radio access network notification area and / or in a radio access network notification area adjacent to the first radio access network notification area.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about a first network slice supported by the first access network device, and the first condition includes that the second access network device supports the first network slice.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs, and the first condition includes that the second access network device belongs to the first neighboring group.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes access network device identification information, wherein the first condition is that the second access network device is the access network device corresponding to the access network device identification information.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes first physical cell identifier information, and the condition includes that the serving cell of the second access network device contains a cell corresponding to the first physical cell identifier information.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first access network device may also receive at least one of the following information from the first network element: identification information, the identifier of the public land mobile network (PLMN) being broadcast, the tracking area code (TAC) of the tracking area it is in, information on the supported network slices, the radio access technology (RAT) information corresponding to the TAC, the identifier of the radio access network notification area (RNA) it is in, information on the area managed by the access management network element serving the second access network device, information on the serving cell, information on neighboring cells, and the identifier of the neighboring group it belongs to.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the first access network device may further receive a second physical cell identifier (PCI) from a terminal device; then, send a second message to the first network element, the second message including the second PCI, the second message being used to obtain address information of the access network device whose serving cell includes the cell corresponding to the second PCI; and receive address information of a third access network device from the first network element, the serving cell of the third access network device including the cell corresponding to the second PCI.

[0022] In this implementation, the address information of the corresponding access network device is obtained through the PCI of the terminal device. Typically, the access network device that meets the PCI criteria is a neighboring access network device of the first access network device. Establishing a communication connection between the first and third access network devices facilitates handover between the terminal device and the third access network device.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the first access network device sends a registration message to the first network element, the registration message including information of the first access network device, the registration message being used to request the first network element to store the information of the first access network device.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the first access network device also sends one or more of the following to the first network element: identification information (e.g., global NG-RAN node ID), the identifier of the broadcast public land mobile network (PLMN), the tracking area code (TAC) of the tracking area, information on supported network slices (e.g., single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI)), radio access technology (RAT) information corresponding to the TAC (e.g., 4G, 5G), the identifier of the radio access network notification area (RNA), information on the AMF-managed region serving the first access network device, information on the serving cell, information on neighboring cells, the identifier of the neighboring cell group, the Xn-U interface address, the identifier of the routing area, and the identifier of the location area.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the first message includes first indication information, which is used to indicate that when the access network device that satisfies the first condition changes, information about the changed access network device that satisfies the first condition should be sent to the first access network device.

[0026] In this implementation, the first message can be viewed as a subscription message, whereby the first access network device subscribes to information about access network devices that meet the first condition from the first network element. When the information about an access network device that meets the first condition changes, the first network element promptly notifies the first access network device, eliminating the need for the first access network device to request the information again. This saves signaling overhead and improves the accuracy of the first access network device in obtaining information about access network devices that meet the first condition.

[0027] Secondly, this application provides a communication method, which can be executed by a first network element, or by other devices including the functions of the first network element, or by a chip system (which can also be replaced by a chip) or other functional modules. The chip system or functional module is capable of implementing the functions of the first network element, and is, for example, disposed within the first network element. The first network element can be an NRF (Network Radio Frequency). The method includes: the first network element receiving a first message from a first access network device, the first message being used to obtain address information of a second access network device, the second access network device satisfying a first condition; and sending the address information of the second access network device to the first access network device.

[0028] In this embodiment, the first access network device can obtain the address information of the access network device that meets the first condition from the first network element. In other words, the operation and maintenance management network element can configure the relevant information of the first network element in the first access network device so that the first access network device can find the first network element. There is no need to configure the address information of the access network device that meets the first condition, which can reduce the workload and avoid the address information configuration error of the access network device.

[0029] In one possible implementation, the first condition includes one or more of the following: being located in the same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device; supporting a first network slice, wherein the first network slice is a network slice supported by the first access network device; and belonging to a first neighboring group, wherein the first neighboring group is the neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs.

[0030] This implementation method allows setting multiple conditions to obtain the address information of access network devices that meet these conditions, enabling the establishment of communication connections with them and making it applicable to a wider range of business scenarios.

[0031] In one possible implementation, the area located in the same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device includes one or more of the following: located in the first tracking area where the first access network device is located; located in the tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area where the first access network device is located; located in the area managed by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) element where the first access network device is located; located in the first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located; and located in the radio access network notification area adjacent to the first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the first message includes information associated with the first condition.

[0033] In this implementation, the first access network device informs the first network element which access network device(s) meet which conditions. By carrying different information, the address information of access network devices that meet different conditions can be obtained, thus realizing the classification and acquisition of the address information of access network devices.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first tracking area where the first access network device is located, and the first condition includes the second access network device being located in the first tracking area and / or in a tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the area managed by the AMF where the first access network device is located, and the first condition includes that the second access network device is located in the area managed by the AMF.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located, and the first condition includes that the second access network device is located in the first radio access network notification area and / or in a radio access network notification area adjacent to the first radio access network notification area.

[0037] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about a first network slice supported by the first access network device, and the first condition includes that the second access network device supports the first network slice.

[0038] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs, and the first condition includes that the second access network device belongs to the first neighboring group.

[0039] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes access network device identification information, wherein the first condition is that the second access network device is the access network device corresponding to the access network device identification information.

[0040] In one possible implementation, the information associated with the first condition includes first physical cell identifier information, and the condition includes that the serving cell of the second access network device contains a cell corresponding to the first physical cell identifier information.

[0041] In one possible implementation, the first message includes the identification information of the first access network device, and the method further includes: obtaining the first area where the first access network device is located based on the identification information of the first access network device; and obtaining the address information of a second access network device located in the first area and / or located in an area adjacent to the first area.

[0042] In this implementation, the first access network device does not need to inform the first network element which access network device(s) meet which conditions to select. Instead, the first network element or other core network elements can determine which access network device(s) meet which conditions to select. This simplifies the workload of the first access network device and reduces signaling overhead.

[0043] In one possible implementation, the first area where the first access network device is located includes at least one of the following: a first tracking area where the first access network device is located; an area managed by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) element where the first access network device is located; and a first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the first message includes the identification information of the first access network device, and the method further includes: obtaining a first network slice supported by the first access network device based on the identification information of the first access network device; and obtaining the address information of a second access network device that supports the first network slice.

[0045] In one possible implementation, the first message includes the identification information of the first access network device, and the method further includes: obtaining the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs based on the identification information of the first access network device; and obtaining the address information of the second access network device belonging to the first neighboring group.

[0046] In one possible implementation, the first network element receives a registration message from the second access network device, the registration message including the address information of the second access network device.

[0047] In one possible implementation, the first network element may also receive one or more of the following from the second access network device: identification information, the identifier of the broadcast Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), the Tracking Area Code (TAC) of the tracking area, information on supported network slices, Radio Access Technology (RAT) information corresponding to the TAC, the identifier of the Radio Access Network Notification Area (RNA), information on the area managed by the AMF serving the second access network device, information on the serving cell, information on neighboring cells, the identifier of the neighboring cell group, the Xn-U interface address, the identifier of the routing area, and the identifier of the location area.

[0048] The first network element can store this information from the second access network device.

[0049] In one possible implementation, the first network element may receive a registration message from the first access network device, the registration message including information about the first access network device.

[0050] In one possible implementation, the first network element may also receive one or more of the following from the first access network device: identification information, the identifier of the broadcast Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), the Tracking Area Code (TAC) of the tracking area, information on supported network slices, Radio Access Technology (RAT) information corresponding to the TAC, the identifier of the Radio Access Network Notification Area (RNA), information on the area managed by the AMF serving the first access network device, information on the serving cell, information on neighboring cells, the identifier of the neighboring cell group, the Xn-U interface address, the identifier of the routing area, and the identifier of the location area.

[0051] The first network element can store this information from the first access network device.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the first network element can send information about the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0053] In this implementation, if the second access network device satisfies the first condition corresponding to the first access network device, then the first access network device will also satisfy the condition corresponding to the second access network device. After identifying the second access network device, the first network element can send relevant information about the first access network device to the second access network device. The first network element ensures that the discovery of access network devices is mutual and will not affect the timeliness of terminal device connection restoration.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the first network element receives a second message from the first access network device, the second message including a second PCI, the second message being used to obtain the address information of the access network device whose serving cell includes the cell corresponding to the second PCI; the first network element sends the address information of a third access network device to the first access network device, the serving cell of the third access network device including the cell corresponding to the second PCI.

[0055] For example, the first network element determines the third access network device based on the information of the first access network device and the second PCI.

[0056] In this implementation, the address information of the corresponding access network device is obtained through the PCI of the terminal device. Typically, the access network device that meets the PCI criteria is a neighboring access network device of the first access network device. Establishing a communication connection between the first and third access network devices facilitates handover between the terminal device and the third access network device.

[0057] In one possible implementation: the first network element determines, based on the area information in the information of the first access network device, that the serving cell in the area or the area adjacent to the area includes the access network device of the second PCI as the third access network device.

[0058] In one possible implementation, the first message includes first indication information, which is used to indicate that when the access network device that satisfies the first condition changes, information about the changed access network device that satisfies the first condition should be sent to the first access network device.

[0059] In this implementation, the first message can be viewed as a subscription message, whereby the first access network device subscribes to information about access network devices that meet the first condition from the first network element. When the information about an access network device that meets the first condition changes, the first network element promptly notifies the first access network device, eliminating the need for the first access network device to request the information again. This saves signaling overhead and improves the accuracy of the first access network device in obtaining information about access network devices that meet the first condition.

[0060] Thirdly, a communication device is provided, which can be the first access network device described in the foregoing aspects. The communication device possesses the functions of the first access network device. The communication device is, for example, a functional module within the first access network device, such as a baseband device or a chip system. Alternatively, the communication device can be the first network element described in the foregoing aspects. The communication device possesses the functions of the first network element. The communication device is, for example, a functional module within the first network element, such as a baseband device or a chip system.

[0061] In one optional implementation, the communication device includes a baseband device and a radio frequency device. In another optional implementation, the communication device includes a processing unit (sometimes also called a processing module) and a transceiver unit (sometimes also called a transceiver module). The transceiver unit is capable of transmitting and receiving functions. When the transceiver unit performs the transmitting function, it can be called a transmitting unit (sometimes also called a transmitting module), and when the transceiver unit performs the receiving function, it can be called a receiving unit (sometimes also called a receiving module). The transmitting unit and the receiving unit can be the same functional module, which is called the transceiver unit and can perform both transmitting and receiving functions; or, the transmitting unit and the receiving unit can be different functional modules, and the transceiver unit is a collective term for these functional modules.

[0062] In one possible implementation, the communication device further includes a storage unit (sometimes also called a storage module), and the processing unit is configured to couple with the storage unit and execute programs or instructions in the storage unit to enable the communication device to perform the functions of the first access network device described in the foregoing aspects, or to perform the functions of the first network element described in the foregoing aspects.

[0063] Fourthly, a communication device is provided, including an interface circuit and a processor, and optionally, a memory. The memory stores a computer program. The processor is coupled to the memory and the interface circuit. When the processor reads the computer program or instructions, it causes the communication device to execute the methods executed by the first access network device or the methods executed by the first network element in the aforementioned aspects. For example, the interface circuit is used to receive signals from other communication devices besides the communication device and transmit them to the processor, or to send signals from the processor to other communication devices besides the communication device. The processor, through logic circuits or executable code instructions, implements the methods executed by the first access network device or the methods executed by the first network element in the aforementioned aspects.

[0064] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or a chip system. The chip system may consist of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0065] Fifthly, a communication device is provided, including a processor, and optionally, a memory; the processor and the memory are coupled; the memory is used to store computer programs or instructions; the processor is used to execute part or all of the computer programs or instructions in the memory, and when the part or all of the computer programs or instructions are executed, to implement the functions of a first access network device in the above aspects, or to implement the functions of a first network element in the above aspects.

[0066] In one possible implementation, the apparatus may further include a transceiver for transmitting signals processed by the processor or receiving signals input to the processor. The transceiver may perform transmitting or receiving actions performed by the first access network device or the first network element in each aspect.

[0067] In one possible implementation, the processing unit in the third aspect can be implemented by the processor, the storage unit in the third aspect can be implemented by the memory, and the transceiver unit in the third aspect can be implemented by the transceiver.

[0068] In one possible implementation, the communication device is a chip or a chip system. The chip system may consist of chips or may include chips and other discrete components.

[0069] In a sixth aspect, a computer-readable storage medium is provided for storing a computer program or instructions that, when executed, enable the implementation of the methods in the foregoing aspects.

[0070] In a seventh aspect, a computer program product containing instructions is provided, which, when run on a computer, enables the methods in the above aspects to be implemented.

[0071] Eighthly, a communication system is provided, comprising a first access network device and a first network element as described in the preceding aspects. For example, the first access network device and the first network element may be implemented using the communication apparatus described in the third, fourth, or fifth aspects. Attached Figure Description

[0072] Figure 1a , Figure 1b and Figure 1c These are schematic diagrams of the communication system architecture provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0073] Figure 2 A flowchart of a communication method for establishing Xn connections based on Automatic Neighbor Relationship (ANR) is provided.

[0074] Figure 3 A regional comparison diagram provided for an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 4 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0077] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0078] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of a communication method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0079] Figure 8 A structural diagram of a communication device provided in this application;

[0080] Figure 9 A structural diagram of a communication device provided in this application. Detailed Implementation

[0081] The technical solution of this application can be applied to various wireless communication systems, including but not limited to the fourth generation (4G) system (also known as the long term evolution (LTE) system), the fifth generation (5G) system (also known as the new radio (NR) system), or future mobile communication systems, etc., without any specific limitations.

[0082] Furthermore, the technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to device-to-device (D2D) scenarios, such as NR-D2D scenarios, or to vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication scenarios, such as NR-V2X scenarios. For example, they can be used in fields such as intelligent driving, assisted driving, or intelligent connected vehicles. As another example, the technical solutions provided in this application can also be applied to factory manufacturing scenarios.

[0083] Furthermore, the technical solutions provided in this application can be applied to scenarios including but not limited to: terrestrial cellular communication, non-terrestrial network (NTN), satellite communication, high altitude platform station (HAPS) communication, integrated access and backhaul (IAB) communication, and reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS) communication.

[0084] For example, Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of a 5G communication system architecture to which this application can be applied. Specifically, Figure 1a This is a schematic diagram of a 5G network architecture based on a service-oriented architecture. For example, Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of another 5G communication system architecture to which this application can be applied. Specifically, Figure 1b This is a schematic diagram of a point-to-point 5G architecture. Figure 1a and Figure 1b The main difference is that, Figure 1a The interfaces between the various network elements are service-oriented interfaces. Figure 1b The interfaces between the various network elements are point-to-point interfaces.

[0085] Figure 1a and Figure 1b The 5G network architecture shown may include a terminal equipment section, an access network section, and a core network section. Optionally, it may also include a data network (DN) and application function (AF) network elements. The terminal accesses the core network through the access network, and the core network communicates with the DN or AF. The functions of some of these network elements are briefly described below.

[0086] A terminal device, also known as user equipment (UE), is a device with wireless transceiver capabilities. It can be deployed on land, including indoors or outdoors, handheld or vehicle-mounted; on water (such as on ships); and in the air (such as on airplanes, balloons, and satellites). Terminal devices can include mobile phones, tablets, computers with wireless transceiver capabilities, virtual reality (VR) terminals, augmented reality (AR) terminals, wireless terminals in industrial control, wireless terminals in self-driving vehicles, wireless terminals in remote medical care, wireless terminals in smart grids, wireless terminals in transportation safety, wireless terminals in smart cities, and wireless terminals in smart homes, etc.

[0087] The (R)AN equipment in this application is a device that provides wireless communication functions for terminal devices. The (R)AN equipment is also referred to as access network equipment. The RAN equipment in this application includes, but is not limited to: next-generation base stations (g node B, gNB), evolved node B (eNB), radio network controllers (RNC), node Bs (NB), base station controllers (BSC), base transceiver stations (BTS), home base stations (e.g., home evolved node B, or home node B, HNB), baseband units (BBU), transmitting and receiving points (TRP), transmitting points (TP), mobile switching centers, etc. In systems employing different wireless access technologies, the names of devices with base station functions may vary. For example, in 5th generation (5G) systems, they are called RAN or gNB (5G NodeB); in LTE systems, they are called evolved NodeB (eNB or eNodeB); and in 3rd generation (3G) systems, they are called Node B, etc.

[0088] A Data Network (DN) can deploy various services, providing data and / or voice services to terminal devices. For example, a DN might be the private network of a smart factory. Sensors installed in the workshop can act as terminal devices. The DN deploys both sensors and a control server, with the control server providing services to the sensors. Sensors can communicate with the control server, receive instructions, and transmit collected sensor data accordingly. Another example is a DN serving as an internal office network for a company. Employees' mobile phones or computers can act as terminal devices, accessing information and data resources within the company's internal network.

[0089] Application network elements primarily support interaction with the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) core network to provide services, such as influencing data routing decisions, policy control functions, or providing third-party services to the network side. In 5G communication systems, this application network element can be an application function (AF) network element. In future communication systems, the application network element may still be an AF network element, or it may have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0090] The core network portion may include one or more of the following network elements:

[0091] The access management network element (also known as the mobility management network element) is a control plane network element provided by the operator's network. It is responsible for access control and mobility management of terminal devices accessing the operator's network, including functions such as mobility state management, allocation of temporary user identities, authentication, and user management. In 5G communication systems, this access management network element can be an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element. In future communication systems, the access management network element can still be an AMF network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit its scope.

[0092] The session management network element is primarily responsible for session management in mobile networks, such as session establishment, modification, and release. Specific functions include assigning IP addresses to users and selecting user plane network elements that provide packet forwarding capabilities. In 5G communication systems, this session management network element can be a session management function (SMF) network element. In future communication systems, the session management network element may still be an SMF network element, or it may have other names; this application does not impose any limitations on this.

[0093] User plane network elements are responsible for forwarding and receiving user data in terminal devices. They can receive user data from the data network and transmit it to the terminal device through the access network equipment; user plane network elements can also receive user data from the terminal device through the access network equipment and forward it to the data network. The transmission resources and scheduling functions that provide services to the terminal device in the user plane network element are managed and controlled by the SMF network element. In 5G communication systems, this user plane network element can be a user plane function (UPF) network element. In future communication systems, the user plane network element can still be a UPF network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0094] The data management network element is used for generating authentication credentials, processing user identifiers (such as storing and managing permanent user identities), access control, and managing subscription data. In 5G communication systems, this data management network element can be a unified data management (UDM) network element. In future communication systems, unified data management can still be a UDM network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0095] Data storage network elements are responsible for storing structured data information, including subscription information, policy information, and network data or service data with standard format definitions. In 5G communication systems, data storage network elements can be unified data repositories (UDRs). In future communication systems, network open function network elements can still be UDR network elements, or they can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0096] The policy control network element primarily supports providing a unified policy framework to control network behavior, providing policy rules to the control layer network functions, and is also responsible for acquiring user subscription information related to policy decisions. In 4G communication systems, this policy control network element can be a policy and charging rules function (PCRF) network element. In 5G communication systems, this policy control network element can be a policy control function (PCF) network element. In future communication systems, the policy control network element can still be a PCF network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0097] The network storage element can be used to provide network element discovery functionality, providing network element information corresponding to the network element type based on requests from other network elements. NRF also provides network element management services, such as network element registration, updating, deregistration, and network element status subscription and push. In 5G communication systems, this network storage element can be a network repository function (NRF) element. In future communication systems, the network storage element can still be an NRF element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit its scope.

[0098] Network exposure function (NEF) network elements can be used to securely expose services and capabilities provided by 3GPP network function equipment to the outside world. In 5G communication systems, NEF network elements can be NEF network elements. In future communication systems, NEF network elements can still be NEF network elements, or they can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0099] The network slice selection function (NSSF) network element can be used to select the appropriate network slice for the terminal's services. In 5G communication systems, the network slice selection network element can be an NSSF network element. In future communication systems, the network open function network element can still be an NSSF network element, or it can have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0100] Network data analytics (NWDAF) network elements can collect, analyze, and predict data from various network functions (NFs), such as policy control, session management, user plane, access management, and application function elements (through network capability open function elements). In 5G communication systems, NWDAF network elements can be network data analytics functions (NWDAF). In future communication systems, NWDAF network elements may still be NWDAF network elements, or they may have other names; this application does not limit this.

[0101] It is understood that the aforementioned network element or function can be a network component in a hardware device, a software function running on dedicated hardware, or a virtualized function instantiated on a platform (e.g., a cloud platform). One possible implementation is that the aforementioned network element or function can be implemented by a single device, multiple devices working together, or a functional module within a single device; this application does not specifically limit this.

[0102] For example, Figure 1cThis is a schematic diagram of another communication system architecture to which this application may be applied, and... Figure 1a The difference lies in the fact that the interface between the RAN and the network elements of the core network is a service-oriented interface. In this architecture, the RAN can register as a Network Function (NF) with the NRF in the core network; other NFs in the network can discover the RAN through the service-oriented interface of the NRF. With the interface between the RAN and the core network service-oriented, the AMF no longer serves as a centralized signaling point, and RAN nodes can communicate directly with network elements in the core network.

[0103] In a wireless mobile communication system, an Xn connection can be established between two access network devices to enable the exchange of control plane information between the two access network devices, the switching of terminal devices between wireless access network devices, and the transmission of dual-connection data. The Xn connection described here can be regarded as a connection of the Xn protocol layer (which includes the application layer). Before establishing an Xn connection, a TNL connection needs to be established first.

[0104] like Figure 2 The diagram shows a flowchart of a communication method for establishing Xn connections based on automatic neighbor relation (ANR).

[0105] Step 201: The terminal device sends the physical cell identifier (PCI) found by the terminal device to the first access network device serving the terminal device.

[0106] For example, if the cell serving the terminal device is cell A, the search result is the PCI of neighboring cell B, where neighboring cell B is the cell of the second access network device.

[0107] Step 202: If the first access network device determines that cell B is an unknown new neighboring cell based on the PCI of cell B, it instructs the terminal device to measure the cell global identifier (CGI) of cell B.

[0108] Step 203: According to the instructions in step 202, the terminal device receives the system information block type 1 (SIB1) information of cell B from the broadcast control channel (BCCH) of cell B, and determines the CGI of cell B from the SIB1 information.

[0109] Step 204: The terminal device sends the CGI of cell B to the first access network device, and the first access network device receives the CGI of cell B accordingly.

[0110] Step 205: The first access network device determines the identifier of the second access network device serving cell B based on the CGI of cell B.

[0111] Step 206: The first access network device sends an uplink RANCONFIGURATION TRANSFER message to the AMF. This message includes the identifier of the first access network device, the identifier of the second access network device, and the TNL information of the first access network device.

[0112] Step 207: The AMF determines the second access network device based on its identifier and sends a downlink RAN ​​configuration transmission message (DOWNLINK RAN CONFIGURATION TRANSFER) to the second access network device. This message includes the identifier of the first access network device and its TNL information.

[0113] Optionally, step 208: The second access network device sends its identifier and TNL information to the first access network device via the AMF.

[0114] Step 209: The first access network device and the second access network device establish a TNL connection based on the TNL information.

[0115] Step 210: The first access network device and the second access network device establish an Xn connection.

[0116] For example, after establishing a transport layer connection, the first access network device sends an Xn Setup Request to the second access network device, the request including relevant information about the first access network device. Upon receiving the Xn Setup Request, the second access network device sends an Xn Setup Response to the first access network device, the response including relevant information about the second access network device. At this point, the first and second access network devices have established an Xn connection.

[0117] Figure 2 The introduced method can only discover access network devices that are spatially directly adjacent, but the access network devices that need to establish an Xn connection are not necessarily directly adjacent. Based on this, this application proposes several communication methods for identifying other access network devices that have established communication connections with a given access network device.

[0118] The following explanations of some terms or concepts used in the embodiments of this application are provided to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0119] 1) The access network device that establishes a communication connection with the first access network device can be replaced with: an access network device that needs to establish a communication connection with the first access network device, an access network device that can establish a communication connection with the first access network device, an access network device that is allowed to establish a communication connection with the first access network device, an access network device that is reachable by the first access network device, or an access network device that establishes a communication connection with the first access network device and supports the functional requirements (the function refers to the function that needs to rely on the Xn interface, such as supporting the terminal RRC_INACTIVE state, supporting dual-connection data transmission, supporting Xn handover, etc.). In one possible scenario, the terminal device can be switched from the first access network device to the second access network device. The first access network device can be called the source access network device (S-RAN), and the second access network device can be called the target access network device (T-RAN).

[0120] 2) Interaction between access network equipment and the first network element:

[0121] The first network element can be an NRF network element, or other network elements capable of acquiring and storing relevant information about access network devices (e.g., address information). For example, this method can be applied to... Figure 1c The communication system shown.

[0122] In one example, the access network device (e.g., the first access network device) can interact with the first network element based on a service-based interface (i.e., by calling service operations).

[0123] For example, the first access network device sends a first message and relevant information of the first access network device to the first network element based on the service interface.

[0124] For example, the second access network device sends relevant information about the second access network device to the first network element based on the service interface.

[0125] For example, the first network element sends relevant information about the second access network device to the first access network device.

[0126] For example, the first network element sends relevant information about the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0127] In another example, the first access network device and the first network element can interact via forwarding from other network elements. For example, the first network element is an NRF, and the other network elements are AMFs. This approach can be applied to... Figure 1a and Figure 1b The communication system shown.

[0128] 3) Establishing a communication connection between two access network devices can be replaced by: establishing an Xn connection, an Xn-C connection, or a control plane connection. The Xn connection or Xn-C connection can also be replaced with other names, but the function of this communication connection can still be at least one of the functions of an Xn connection or an Xn-C connection. For example, the function includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: for exchanging control plane information between the two access network devices, for handover of terminal devices between radio access network devices, and for dual-connectivity data transmission.

[0129] Communication connections between access network devices can be established based on service-oriented interfaces or point-to-point interfaces.

[0130] 4) Neighboring group, which can be replaced with neighboring area, access network device group.

[0131] The role of proximity groups includes, but is not limited to, identifying access network devices that establish communication connections. For example, access network devices belonging to the same proximity group can establish communication connections with each other.

[0132] A neighborhood group can include one or more access network devices. Multiple access network devices in a neighborhood group can be directly adjacent to each other in space, or they can not be spatially adjacent.

[0133] An access network device can belong to one or more neighboring groups, and multiple neighboring group identifiers can be configured in an access network device.

[0134] 5) Various regions:

[0135] A tracking area (TA) is a configuration at the RAN node or cell level. A tracking area includes one or more cells, and a cell can only belong to one tracking area. The tracking area identity (TAI) includes: mobile country code (MCC), mobile network code (MNC), and tracking area code (TAC). A tracking area list is a list of combined TAIs.

[0136] The RAN notification area (RNA) is a region smaller than the tracking area (TA). The RNA identifier includes the cell identifier and / or the RAN area ID. When a UE enters the RRC_INACTIVE state, the first access network device informs the UE of an RNA and retains the UE's context. When the UE moves within the RNA, it does not need to perform a mobility registration update; when the UE resumes connected state within the RNA, the second access network device can obtain the UE's context information from the first access network device via the Xn interface.

[0137] like Figure 3 The diagram illustrates a comparison of the Tracking Area (TA), Radio Access Network Notification Area (RNA), and the cell.

[0138] To better illustrate the embodiments of this application, the methods provided by the embodiments of this application are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified in the following text, the steps indicated by dashed lines in the accompanying drawings corresponding to the various embodiments of this application are optional steps.

[0139] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating a communication method provided in this application embodiment includes the following steps:

[0140] Step 401: The first access network device sends a first message to the first network element, and correspondingly, the first network element receives the first message from the first access network device.

[0141] The first message is used to obtain the address information of the second access network device, or to obtain relevant information about the second access network device. The second access network device can be understood as: an access network device that has established a communication connection with the first access network device, or an access network device that meets certain conditions. Since the first access network device requests the information, these conditions are related to the information of the first access network device. For example, the information of the first access network device includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: the region where the first access network device is located, the network slice supported by the first access network device, the neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs, and the neighboring cells of the first access network device. For ease of description, this condition related to the first access network device is referred to as the first condition.

[0142] Optionally, the first access network device may generate the first message before sending the first message to the first network element.

[0143] Step 402: The first network element sends the address information of the second access network device to the first access network device; correspondingly, the first access network device receives the address information of the second access network device.

[0144] The number of second access network devices can be one or more. This address information is used to establish a communication connection between the first access network device and the second access network device.

[0145] The address information of the second access network device can be provided by the second access network device to the first network element, or it can be obtained by the first network element from other network elements. In one possible implementation, the first access network device can send a registration message to the first network element, which includes the address information of the first access network device.

[0146] exist Figure 1c In this architecture, the RAN can register as a Network Function (NF) with the NRF in the core network. When applied to a first access network device, the first access network device can register with the NRF, informing the NRF of its address information during registration. When applied to a second access network device, the second access network device can register with the NRF, informing the NRF of its address information during registration.

[0147] Optionally, in step 403: the first access network device establishes a communication connection with the second access network device based on the address information of the second access network device.

[0148] In one example, the address information of the second access network device is its Transport Network Layer (TNL) information, such as its IP address and port number. One possible implementation of step 403 is as follows: The first access network device establishes a TNL connection with the second access network device based on the TNL information of the second access network device. Then, the first access network device sends an Xn Setup Request to the second access network device, which includes relevant information about the first access network device. After receiving the Xn Setup Request, the second access network device sends an Xn Setup Response to the first access network device, which includes relevant information about the second access network device. At this point, a communication connection is established between the first and second access network devices. This example is applicable to scenarios where the interface between the first and second access network devices is a point-to-point interface.

[0149] In another example, the address information of the second access network device is its IP address and / or domain name. One possible implementation of step 403 is: the first access network device sends a request message to the second access network device to establish a communication connection based on the second access network device's address information; upon receiving the request message, the second access network device sends an establishment response to the first access network device. At this point, the first and second access network devices have established a communication connection. Optionally, in addition to these two steps, other steps may be included in the process of establishing a communication connection. This example is applicable to scenarios where the interface between the first and second access network devices is a service-oriented interface.

[0150] In this embodiment, the first access network device can obtain the address information of the access network device that meets the first condition from the first network element. In other words, the operation and maintenance management network element can configure the relevant information of the first network element in the first access network device so that the first access network device can find the first network element. There is no need to configure the address information of the access network device that meets the first condition, which can reduce the workload and avoid the address information configuration error of the access network device.

[0151] In one possible implementation, the first condition includes, but is not limited to: conditions concerning the region, conditions concerning network slices, conditions concerning neighbor groups, conditions concerning the identification information of access network devices, and conditions concerning PCI. The first condition includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following (the numbers in the following conditions are for convenience only and do not represent the order or priority of the conditions):

[0152] 1. Located in the same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device.

[0153] 2. Supports a first network slice, which is a network slice supported by the first access network device; the first network slice can be one or more.

[0154] 3. Belongs to the first neighboring group, which is the neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs; the first neighboring group can be one or more.

[0155] 4. The access network device corresponding to one or more access network device identification information.

[0156] 5. The serving cell includes the access network equipment of the cell corresponding to the first PCI. The first PCI can be one or multiple. The first PCI can be sent by the terminal equipment to the first access network equipment, or it can be pre-configured in the first access network equipment.

[0157] Condition 1 (located in the same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device) specifically includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following:

[0158] Located in the first tracking area where the first access network device is located;

[0159] The second tracking area is located adjacent to the first tracking area where the first access network device is located;

[0160] Located in the AMF management area where the first access network device is located; the AMF is the AMF that serves the first access network device.

[0161] The first radio access network notification area (RNA) where the first access network device is located;

[0162] The second RNA located adjacent to the first RNA where the first access network device is located;

[0163] Located in the first location area where the first access network device is located;

[0164] Located in a second location area adjacent to the first location area where the first access network device is located;

[0165] Located in the first routing area where the first access network device is located;

[0166] The second routing area is located adjacent to the first routing area where the first access network device is located.

[0167] This implementation method allows setting multiple conditions to obtain the address information of access network devices that meet these conditions, enabling the establishment of communication connections with them and making it applicable to a wider range of business scenarios.

[0168] In one possible implementation, after step 401 (the first network element receives the first message) and before step 402 (the first network element sends the address information of the second access network device to the first access network device), the first network element selects the second access network device that meets the first condition based on the first condition and determines the address information of the second access network device.

[0169] There are multiple ways for the first network element to obtain the first condition (the numbers in the following methods are for ease of description only and do not represent the order or priority of the methods):

[0170] Method 1: The first access network device can pre-configure the first condition association information. The first access network device indicates the first condition association information to the first network element, and the first network element obtains the first condition from the first access network device. For example, the first access network device can carry the first condition association information in the first message in step 401, or it can carry the first condition association information in a message different from the first message. The first condition association information includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: information about the area where the first access network device is located, information about the first supported network slice, information about the first neighboring group it belongs to, identification information of the access network device, and information about the first PCI. The area information includes, for example, information about the tracking area, information about the area managed by AMF, information about RNA, information about the location area, information about the routing area, etc.

[0171] In this implementation, the first access network device informs the first network element which access network device(s) meet which conditions. By carrying different information, the address information of access network devices that meet different conditions can be obtained, thus realizing the classification and acquisition of the address information of access network devices.

[0172] Method 2: The first network element can determine the information associated with the first condition based on the identifier of the first access network device in the first message, without the first access network device needing to inform the first network element of the information of the first condition in the first message.

[0173] For example, the first network element can be pre-configured with policy information for selecting access network devices, or this policy information can be obtained from other network elements. This policy information includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following conditions: area information conditions, network slicing conditions, neighbor group conditions, etc.

[0174] The conditions for area information can indicate that the selected access network device is located in the same and / or adjacent area as the requested access network device. This area can be a tracking area, an area managed by the AMF, an RNA, a location area, a routing area, etc.

[0175] The conditions for network slicing can indicate that the selected access network device supports the same network slicing as the requested access network device.

[0176] The neighbor group condition can indicate that the selected access network device and the requested access network device belong to the same neighbor group.

[0177] Applied to Figure 4 In the example, the selected access network device is the second access network device, and the requested access network device is the first access network device. It's also important to note that the policy information for selecting the access network device can be configured not only for the first access network device, but can apply to all or most access network devices.

[0178] The first network element can determine the relevant information of the first access network device based on the identifier of the first access network device in the first message; and determine the first condition based on the policy information and the information of the first access network device that matches the policy information.

[0179] For example, the policy information includes: the selected access network device and the requested access network device are located in the same and / or adjacent areas, and the information in the relevant information of the first access network device that matches the policy information includes information about the area where the first access network device is located. Then the first condition includes: 1. Located in the same and / or adjacent areas as the first access network device.

[0180] For example, the policy information includes: the selected access network device and the requested access network device support the same network slice, and the information in the relevant information of the first access network device that matches the policy information includes information about the first network slice supported by the first access network device. Then the first condition includes: 2. Supporting the first network slice.

[0181] For example, the policy information includes: the selected access network device and the requested access network device belong to the same neighbor group, and the information in the relevant information of the first access network device that matches the policy information includes information about the first neighbor group to which the first access network device belongs. Therefore, the first condition includes: 3. Belonging to the first neighbor group.

[0182] Method 3: The first network element can obtain the first condition from other network elements.

[0183] like Figure 5 As shown, taking the example of the first access network device informing the first network element of the first condition, a flowchart of a communication method is introduced, including the following steps:

[0184] Step 501: The first access network device sends relevant information about itself to the first network element, and the first network element receives the relevant information from the first access network device.

[0185] Optionally, the first access network device sends a registration request message (the registration request message in this embodiment can also be called a registration message) to the first network element, and the registration request message includes relevant information of the first access network device.

[0186] The relevant information of the first access network device includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: address information, identification information (e.g., global NG-RAN node ID), the identifier of the broadcast public land mobile network (PLMN), the tracking area code (TAC) of the tracking area it is in, information on supported network slices (e.g., single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI)), radio access technology (RAT) information corresponding to the TAC (e.g., 4G, 5G), the identifier of the radio access network notification area (RNA) it is in, information on the AMF-managed region serving the first access network device, information on the serving cell, information on neighboring cells, the identifier of the neighboring cell group it belongs to, the Xn-U interface address, the identifier of the routing area it is in, and the identifier of the location area it is in.

[0187] The relevant information of the first access network device can be sent to the first network element in one message or in multiple messages. For example, the registration request message includes the address information and identification information of the first access network device. After the registration request message, the first access network device can send one or more other related information to the first network element based on the request of the first network element or by taking the initiative.

[0188] The first network element can store relevant information about the first access network device.

[0189] Step 502: The second access network device sends relevant information about the second access network device to the first network element, and the first network element receives the relevant information about the second access network device accordingly.

[0190] Optionally, the second access network device sends a registration request message to the first network element, the registration request message including relevant information about the second access network device.

[0191] The relevant information of the second access network device includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: address information, identification information (e.g., global NG-RAN node ID), the identifier of the broadcast public land mobile network (PLMN), the tracking area code (TAC) of the tracking area, information on supported network slices (e.g., single network slice selection assistance information (S-NSSAI)), radio access technology (RAT) information corresponding to the TAC (e.g., 4G, 5G), the identifier of the radio access network notification area (RNA), information on the AMF-managed region serving the second access network device, information on the serving cell, information on neighboring cells, the identifier of the neighboring cell group, the Xn-U interface address, the identifier of the routing area, and the identifier of the location area.

[0192] The relevant information of the second access network device can be sent to the first network element in a single message or in multiple messages. For example, the registration request message includes the address and identification information of the second access network device. After the registration request message, the second access network device can send one or more other related information to the first network element based on the request of the first network element or by proactively sending such information.

[0193] The first network element can store relevant information about the second access network device.

[0194] The order of steps 501 and 502 is not restricted. In addition to the first access network device and the second access network device, other access network devices can also register with the first network element and inform the first network element of their own relevant information.

[0195] Step 503: The first access network device sends a first message to the first network element; correspondingly, the first network element receives the first message.

[0196] The first message includes the identification information of the first access network device and the information associated with the first condition. The information associated with the first condition includes, but is not limited to, one or more of the following: area information, network slice information, neighbor group information, identification information of the access network device, and PCI information.

[0197] The information of the area includes, but is not limited to, any of the following: information of the first tracking area where the first access network device is located, information of the tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area where the first access network device is located, information of the area managed by the AMF where the first access network device is located, information of the first radio access network notification area (RNA) where the first access network device is located, information of the RNA adjacent to the first RNA where the first access network device is located, information of the first location area where the first access network device is located, information of the second location area adjacent to the first location area where the first access network device is located, information of the first routing area where the first access network device is located, information of the second routing area adjacent to the first routing area where the first access network device is located, or information of other areas pre-configured in the first access network device, wherein the type of other areas may be tracking area, AMF-managed area, RNA, location area, routing area, etc.

[0198] The network slice information may include, but is not limited to, information about the first network slice supported by the first access network device, and may also include information about other network slices pre-configured in the first access network device. There may be one or more first network slices.

[0199] The information about the neighboring group may include, but is not limited to, information about the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs, as well as information about other neighboring groups pre-configured in the first access network device. There may be one or more first neighboring groups.

[0200] Optionally, the first message may also include a network element type, which is an access network device. This network element type information element can indicate which type of device to retrieve, such as an access network device, a core network device, or a terminal device.

[0201] The first message could be a discovery request message.

[0202] Step 504: The first network element determines the second access network device based on the information associated with the first condition.

[0203] For example, when the information associated with the first condition includes information about a region, the first condition is used to indicate the acquisition of access network devices located within that region, and / or the acquisition of access network devices located in regions adjacent to that region.

[0204] For example, when the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first tracking area where the first access network device is located, the first condition may instruct the acquisition of access network devices located within the first tracking area, and / or, the acquisition of access network devices located within a tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area. Then, the second access network device includes the access network device located within the first tracking area, and / or includes the access network device located within a tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area.

[0205] For example, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the area managed by the AMF where the first access network device is located, and the first condition can instruct the acquisition of access network devices within the area managed by the AMF. Then, the second access network device includes access network devices located in the area managed by the first AMF.

[0206] For example, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located. The first condition may indicate the acquisition of access network devices located in the first radio access network notification area and / or in radio access network notification areas adjacent to the first radio access network notification area. Then, the second access network device includes the access network device located in the first radio access network notification area, and / or, the access network device located in a radio access network notification area adjacent to the first radio access network notification area.

[0207] For example, the information associated with the first condition includes information about a first network slice supported by the first access network device, and the first condition can indicate the acquisition of access network devices that support the first network slice. Therefore, the second access network device includes access network devices that support the first network slice.

[0208] For example, the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs, and the first condition can indicate the acquisition of access network devices belonging to the first neighboring group. Therefore, the second access network device includes access network devices belonging to the first neighboring group.

[0209] For example, the information associated with the first condition includes access network device identification information, and the first condition can indicate the acquisition of the access network device corresponding to the access network device identification information. Then, the second access network device includes the access network device corresponding to the access network device identification information in the first condition.

[0210] For example, the information associated with the first condition includes first physical cell identifier information, and the first condition can indicate the access network device that obtains the serving cell containing the cell corresponding to the first physical cell identifier information. Then, the second access network device includes the access network device containing the cell corresponding to the first physical cell identifier information.

[0211] For example, when the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first tracking area where the first access network device is located and information about the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs, the first condition can be used to indicate the acquisition of access network devices that belong to the first neighboring group and are located within the first tracking area. Then, the second access network device belongs to both the first neighboring group and is located within the first tracking area. In other words, if the first condition includes multiple conditions, then the second access network device satisfies multiple conditions.

[0212] For example, when the information associated with the first condition includes information about the first tracking area where the first access network device is located and information about the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs, the first condition can instruct the acquisition of access network devices belonging to the first neighboring group or located within the first tracking area. Access network devices belonging to the first neighboring group and access network devices located within the first tracking area both meet the condition. Therefore, the second access network device belongs to the first neighboring group or is located within the first tracking area. In other words, if the first condition includes multiple conditions, the second access network device only needs to satisfy any one of them.

[0213] Once the second access network device is identified, further information about it can be determined.

[0214] Step 505: The first network element sends relevant information about the second access network device to the first access network device, and correspondingly, the first access network device receives the relevant information about the second access network device.

[0215] In one possible example, the first network element may send other relevant information about the second access network device to the first access network device at the same time as sending the address information of the second access network device to the first access network device (the other relevant information may be one or more of the relevant information about the second access network device other than the address information described in step 502); alternatively, the first network element may first send the address information of the second access network device to the first access network device, and then send other relevant information about the second access network device to the first access network device in other messages.

[0216] In one possible example, the first network element sends the address information of the second access network device to the first access network device, and the second access network device sends other relevant information about itself to the first access network device. For example, during the establishment of a communication connection between the first and second access network devices, and / or after the establishment of the communication connection, the second access network device sends other relevant information about itself to the first access network device.

[0217] Information about the second access network device can be included in the discovery response message.

[0218] Optionally, step 506: The first access network device establishes a communication connection with the second access network device based on the address information of the second access network device.

[0219] Optionally, in step 507: the first network element sends relevant information about the first access network device to the second access network device, and correspondingly, the second access network device receives the relevant information about the first access network device.

[0220] In one possible example, the first network element may send other relevant information about the first access network device to the second access network device at the same time as sending the address information of the first access network device (the other relevant information may be one or more of the relevant information about the first access network device other than the address information described in step 501); alternatively, the first network element may first send the address information of the first access network device to the second access network device, and then send other relevant information about the first access network device to the second access network device in other messages.

[0221] In one possible example, the first network element sends the address information of the first access network device to the second access network device, and the first access network device sends other relevant information of the first access network device to the second access network device. For example, during the establishment of a communication connection between the first access network device and the second access network device, and / or after the establishment of the communication connection, the first access network device sends other relevant information of the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0222] The order of steps 505 and 507 is not restricted, nor is the order of steps 506 and 507.

[0223] After step 505, the first access network device learns the address information of the second access network device, but the second access network device is unaware of the existence of the first access network device. For example, the first access network device may be a newly deployed access network device, while the second access network device may be an already deployed access network device. The second access network device and the first network element can perform a process similar to steps 503, 504, and 505, allowing the second access network device to obtain the relevant information of the first access network device. Because the second access network device satisfies the first condition corresponding to the first access network device, the first access network device will also satisfy the condition corresponding to the second access network device. After identifying the second access network device, the first network element can send the relevant information of the first access network device to the second access network device.

[0224] In one scenario, after a terminal device connects to a first access network device, it enters the RRC_INACTIVE state. The first access network device sends the location of its first RNA to the terminal device. If the terminal device moves within the first RNA and a second access network device is located there, the terminal device may send an RRC recovery message to the second access network device. This message includes the identifier of the first access network device and is used to request entry into the RRC_CONNECTED connected state. Upon receiving the RRC recovery message, the second access network device needs to request the terminal device's context from the first access network device to allow the terminal device to enter the RRC_CONNECTED connected state. However, the second access network device has not yet discovered the first access network device, does not know its address information, and therefore cannot send messages to it.

[0225] In one possible implementation, the second access network device sends a message (e.g., a discovery request message) to the first network element. This message is used to obtain the address information of the first access network device, and includes the identifier of the first access network device. After receiving this message, the first network element sends the address information of the first access network device to the second access network device. The second access network device can then request the context of the terminal device from the first access network device based on its address information. This implementation is logically simple, but during the process of restoring the terminal device's connection, the second access network device requests the address information of the first access network device from the first network element, affecting the timeliness of the terminal device's connection restoration.

[0226] In another possible implementation, after the first network element identifies the second access network device (i.e., step 504), it sends the address information of the first access network device to the second access network device (i.e., step 507). This ensures that the discovery of access network devices is mutual and does not affect the timeliness of terminal device connection restoration.

[0227] like Figure 6 As shown, taking the example of the first access network device not informing the first network element of the first condition, a flowchart of a communication method is introduced, including the following steps:

[0228] Optionally, step 600: The first network element pre-configures the policy information for selecting access network devices.

[0229] The policy information includes conditions for selecting access network devices. For example, these conditions include, but are not limited to, at least one of the following: conditions for area information, conditions for network slicing, conditions for neighboring groups, etc.

[0230] The conditions for area information can indicate that the selected access network device is located in the same and / or adjacent areas as the requested access network device. These areas can be tracking areas, AMF-managed areas, RNA, location areas, routing areas, etc.

[0231] The conditions for network slicing can indicate that the selected access network device supports the same network slicing as the requested access network device.

[0232] The neighbor group condition can indicate that the selected access network device and the requested access network device belong to the same neighbor group.

[0233] For other specific details regarding strategy information, please refer to the description of Method 2 for the First Network Element to Obtain the First Condition, which is introduced above. It will not be elaborated on here.

[0234] Step 601: The first access network device sends relevant information about itself to the first network element, and the first network element receives the relevant information from the first access network device.

[0235] Step 602: The second access network device sends relevant information about the second access network device to the first network element, and the first network element receives the relevant information about the second access network device accordingly.

[0236] Steps 601 and 602 can be referred to steps 501 and 502, and will not be repeated here.

[0237] Step 603: The first access network device sends a first message to the first network element; correspondingly, the first network element receives the first message.

[0238] The first message includes the identification information of the first access network device. Optionally, the first message also includes the network element type, which is an access network device. The network element type information element can indicate which type of device is being retrieved, such as an access network device, a core network device, or a terminal device.

[0239] The first message may not include information related to the first condition.

[0240] Step 604: The first network element determines the first condition association information based on the identification information of the first access network device; then, based on the first condition association information, it determines the second access network device.

[0241] For example, the first network element can determine the information associated with the first condition based on the identification information and policy information of the first access network device contained in the first message in step 603.

[0242] For example, the first network element can determine the relevant information of the first access network device (such as the relevant information sent by the first access network device to the first network element in step 601) based on the identification information of the first access network device contained in the first message in step 603, and find the information that matches the policy information from the relevant information of the first access network device, that is, obtain the information associated with the first condition.

[0243] For example, the policy information includes: the selected access network device and the requested access network device are located in the same and / or adjacent areas, and the information in the relevant information of the first access network device that matches the policy information (i.e., the information associated with the first condition) includes information about the area where the first access network device is located. Then the first condition includes: being located in the same and / or adjacent areas as the first access network device.

[0244] One possible implementation is as follows: The first network element obtains the first area where the first access network device is located based on the identification information of the first access network device; and obtains the address information of a second access network device located within the first area and / or located in an area adjacent to the first area. The first area where the first access network device is located includes at least one of the following: a first tracking area where the first access network device is located; an area managed by the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) network element where the first access network device is located; and a first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located.

[0245] For example, the policy information includes: the selected access network device and the requested access network device support the same network slice, and the information in the relevant information of the first access network device that matches the policy information (i.e., the information associated with the first condition) includes information about the first network slice supported by the first access network device. Therefore, the first condition includes: supporting the first network slice.

[0246] One possible implementation is as follows: the first network element obtains the first network slice supported by the first access network device based on the identification information of the first access network device; and obtains the address information of the second access network device that supports the first network slice.

[0247] For example, the policy information includes: the selected access network device and the requested access network device belong to the same neighbor group, and the information in the relevant information of the first access network device that matches the policy information (i.e., the information associated with the first condition) includes information about the first neighbor group to which the first access network device belongs. Therefore, the first condition includes: belonging to the first neighbor group.

[0248] One possible implementation is as follows: the first network element obtains the first neighboring group to which the first access network device belongs based on the identification information of the first access network device; and obtains the address information of the second access network device belonging to the first neighboring group.

[0249] More details about the information related to the first condition can be found in the previous introduction, and will not be repeated here.

[0250] Once the information associated with the first condition is determined, the first network element can determine the second access network device based on the information associated with the first condition. This process can be referred to the description in step 504, and will not be repeated here.

[0251] Step 605: The first network element sends relevant information about the second access network device to the first access network device, and correspondingly, the first access network device receives the relevant information about the second access network device.

[0252] Optionally, in step 606: the first access network device establishes a communication connection with the second access network device based on the address information of the second access network device.

[0253] Optionally, in step 607: the first network element sends relevant information about the first access network device to the second access network device, and correspondingly, the second access network device receives the relevant information about the first access network device.

[0254] Step 605 can be referred to step 505, step 606 can be referred to step 506, and step 607 can be referred to step 507. They will not be repeated here.

[0255] In one scenario, a terminal device accesses a first access network device and sends a second PCI to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the second PCI and can request address information / related information of a third access network device from a first network element. The third access network device refers to an access network device whose serving cell includes the cell indicated by the second PCI. For example, the first access network device sends a second message to the first network element, the second message including the second PCI. This second message is used to obtain address information / related information of the access network device whose serving cell includes the cell indicated by the second PCI; the second message can be a discovery request message.

[0256] After receiving the second message, the first network element can determine that the serving cell contains a third access network device of the cell indicated by the second PCI, and then determine the relevant information of the third access network device. The first network element sends the relevant information of the third access network device to the first access network device.

[0257] The following is as follows Figure 7 As shown, the process will be described in detail.

[0258] Step 701: The first access network device sends relevant information about itself to the first network element, and the first network element receives the relevant information from the first access network device.

[0259] Step 701 can be referred to step 501, and will not be repeated here.

[0260] Step 702: The third access network device sends relevant information about the third access network device to the first network element, and the first network element receives the relevant information about the third access network device accordingly.

[0261] The process by which the third access network device sends its relevant information to the first network element can be referenced. Figure 5 Steps 501 and 502 in the previous section will not be described in detail here. The relevant information of the third access network device is similar to that of the first access network device and the second access network device described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0262] Step 703: The terminal device connects to the first access network device and sends a second PCI to the first access network device. Correspondingly, the first access network device receives the second PCI.

[0263] Step 704: The first access network device sends the identification information of the first access network device and the second PCI to the first network element.

[0264] The first access network device can request the address information / related information of the third access network device from the first network element. The third access network device refers to the access network device whose serving cell includes the cell indicated by the second PCI.

[0265] Step 705: The first network element determines the third access network device that includes the cell indicated by the second PCI in the serving cell.

[0266] The first network element then determines the relevant information of the third access network device.

[0267] Optionally, the first network element can determine the third access network device based on the relevant information of the first access network device and the second PCI. One possible implementation is to determine the third access network device based on the area information (e.g., tracking area, AMF-managed area, RNA, etc.) in the relevant information of the first access network device, and / or the access network device whose serving cell in the area and / or adjacent areas includes the second PCI. Because the PCI cannot uniquely identify the access network device, it is necessary to find the access network device near the first access network device that supports this PCI. This method of determining the access network device based on PCI can also be applied to other embodiments of this application.

[0268] The first network element can find other relevant information about the first access network device, such as area information, based on the identification information of the first access network device in step 704.

[0269] Step 706: The first network element sends relevant information about the third access network device to the first access network device.

[0270] Optionally, in step 707: the first access network device establishes a communication connection with the third access network device based on the address information of the third access network device.

[0271] Optionally, step 708: The first network element sends relevant information about the first access network device to the third access network device.

[0272] The technical details of steps 706 to 708 can be found in steps 505 to 507, and will not be repeated here.

[0273] The process of obtaining relevant information about access network devices based on the second PCI (e.g.) Figure 7 ), and the process of obtaining relevant information about access network devices based on the first condition (e.g. Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 The order of these steps is not limited. If the first access network device has already obtained the serving cell information of the second access network device, the first access network device can determine whether the obtained serving cell information of the second access network device includes the second PCI. If not, it can then request the relevant information of the third access network device from the first network element (i.e., execute step 704). Alternatively, the first access network device may not perform this determination and can directly request the relevant information of the third access network device from the first network element.

[0274] After receiving the second message, the first network element can determine whether the information of the serving cell of the second access network device sent to the first access network device includes the second PCI. If not, it then sends the relevant information of the third access network device to the first access network device (i.e., executes step 706). Alternatively, the first network element may not perform this determination and directly send the relevant information of the third access network device to the first access network device.

[0275] In this implementation, the address information of the corresponding access network device is obtained through the PCI of the terminal device. Typically, the access network device that meets the PCI criteria is an adjacent access network device of the first access network device. Establishing a communication connection between the first and third access network devices facilitates switching between them for the terminal device. Furthermore, compared to… Figure 2 For example, since it is not necessary to instruct the UE to measure the identifier of the access network equipment in the neighboring cell, air interface signaling can also be saved.

[0276] In one possible implementation, the first message includes first indication information, which is used to instruct that when an access network device satisfying a first condition changes, the changed information should be sent to the first access network device. The first message can be viewed as a subscription message.

[0277] After the first network element sends the address information / related information of the second access network device to the first access network device (i.e., steps 402, 505, and 605), the first network element determines that the fourth access network device meets the first condition, and the first network element can then send the relevant information of the fourth access network device to the first access network device. Optionally, the fourth access network device is a newly deployed access network device that occurs when or after the first network element sends the address information / related information of the second access network device to the first access network device (i.e., steps 402, 504, and 605).

[0278] After the first network element sends the address information / related information of the second access network device to the first access network device (i.e., steps 402, 504, and 605), the first network element determines that the fifth access network device no longer meets the first condition and belongs to the second access network device. At this time, the first network element can send indication information to the first access network device, indicating that the fifth access network device cannot establish a communication connection with the first access network device, or that the fifth access network device does not meet the first condition. This indication information includes the identification information and / or address information of the fifth access network device. Optionally, the fifth access network device is the access network device that was dismantled when or after the first network element sends the address information / related information of the second access network device to the first access network device (i.e., steps 402, 504, and 605).

[0279] After the first network element sends the address information / related information of the second access network device to the first access network device (i.e., steps 402, 504, and 605), the first network element determines that the related information of one or more of the second access network devices has changed. At this time, the first network element can send indication information to the first access network device, which is used to indicate the changed information of the second access network device.

[0280] In this implementation, the first message can be viewed as a subscription message, whereby the first access network device subscribes to information about access network devices that meet the first condition from the first network element. When the information about an access network device that meets the first condition changes, the first network element promptly notifies the first access network device, eliminating the need for the first access network device to request the information again. This saves signaling overhead and improves the accuracy of the first access network device in obtaining information about access network devices that meet the first condition.

[0281] In one possible implementation of this application, the Xn interface (mainly referring to the Xn-C interface) between wireless access networks can be a point-to-point interface or can be replaced with a service-oriented interface.

[0282] When an access network device sends relevant information to a first network element (e.g., during registration or after registration), it can send indication information regarding the service-oriented capabilities of the interfaces between access network devices. This indication information can specify whether the access network device supports service-oriented interfaces, does not support service-oriented interfaces, or supports both service-oriented and point-to-point interfaces. Supporting service-oriented interfaces may also implicitly support point-to-point interfaces; conversely, supporting service-oriented interfaces does not necessarily mean supporting point-to-point interfaces.

[0283] This indication information can display the service capabilities of the access network device for the interfaces between access network devices. For example, this indication information occupies 1 bit, or 2 bits, or more bits to indicate this.

[0284] This indication information can implicitly indicate the service-oriented capabilities of the access network device for interfaces between access network devices. For example, if an access network device sends its TNL information to the first network element, it indicates that the access network device does not support service-oriented interfaces between access network devices; if the access network device does not send its TNL information to the first network element, it indicates that the access network device supports service-oriented interfaces between access network devices. As another example, if an access network device sends its Xn address / domain name to the first network element, it indicates that the access network device supports service-oriented interfaces between access network devices.

[0285] The first network element can determine whether the access network device supports Xn interface service based on this indication information. Further, optionally, if the access network device supports Xn interface service, when sending information about the discovered access network device to that access network device, not only the address information but also many other related information as described above should be sent. If the access network device does not support Xn interface service, only the address information of the discovered access network device can be sent to that access network device, without sending other related information or only sending a small portion of the other related information, such as identification information.

[0286] In this example, Xn interface service-oriented architecture simplifies the configuration of Xn interfaces between access network devices, reducing the risk of missed configurations. Unlike other types of NFs in the network, access network devices have parameters related to fine-grained geographical location (e.g., the range of the "cell" served by the access network device is much smaller than the range of the "tracking area" served by network elements such as AMF / SMF). When an access network device can discover other access network devices through a first network element (which can be understood as corresponding to access network devices that need / are able to establish Xn interfaces in the prior art), how to determine the parameters in the discovery request and how the NRF should retrieve and determine the corresponding target access network device are the problems to be solved in this case.

[0287] The components included in "access network equipment" in this application may vary depending on the deployment architecture of the access network equipment. For example, if the CU in the access network equipment is deployed in a cloud-based manner, then the CU will no longer be associated with fine-grained geographical locations, and the "access network equipment" will no longer include the CU. The "access network equipment" of interest in this application can be in the form of distributed deployment as in the prior art, and the access network equipment needs to be configured with regional parameter information such as TA, RAN Area, etc.

[0288] It is understood that, in order to achieve the functions in the above embodiments, the access network device and the first network element include hardware structures and / or software modules corresponding to each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the units and method steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed in this application, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed by hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application scenario and design constraints of the technical solution.

[0289] Figure 8 and Figure 9 The diagram illustrates the possible communication devices provided in the embodiments of this application. These communication devices can be used to implement the functions of the access network device or the first network element in the above method embodiments, and thus can also achieve the beneficial effects of the above method embodiments.

[0290] like Figure 8 As shown, the communication device 800 includes a processing unit 810 and a transceiver unit 820.

[0291] For example, the communication device 800 is used to achieve the above. Figures 4 to 7The method embodiments shown illustrate the functions of the access network device (e.g., a first access network device, a second access network device, or a third access network device) and the first network element. The transceiver unit 820 can perform the receiving and transmitting actions performed by the access network device and the first network element in the above method embodiments. The processing unit 810 can perform other actions besides the transmitting and receiving actions performed by the access network device and the first network element in the above method embodiments.

[0292] For example, when the communication device 800 is used to implement Figure 4 In the method embodiment shown, when the first access network device functions, the transceiver unit 820 is used to send a first message and receive address information of the second access network device. The processing unit 810 is used to establish a communication connection with the second access network device based on the address information of the second access network device.

[0293] For example, when the communication device 800 is used to implement Figure 4 In the method embodiment shown, when the first network element functions, the transceiver unit 820 is used to receive a first message and send the address information of the second access network device. The processing unit 810 is used to process the first message and determine the address information of the second access network device.

[0294] For a more detailed description of the processing unit 810 and the transceiver unit 820, please refer to [link / reference needed]. Figures 4 to 7 The relevant descriptions in the illustrated method embodiments are directly obtained and will not be repeated here. The processing unit 810 can be implemented by a processor, and the transceiver unit 820 can be implemented by a transceiver.

[0295] like Figure 9 As shown, the communication device 900 includes a processor 910 and an interface circuit 920. The processor 910 and the interface circuit 920 are coupled to each other. It is understood that the interface circuit 920 can be a transceiver or an input / output interface. Optionally, the communication device 900 may also include a memory 930 for storing instructions executed by the processor 910, or storing input data required for the processor 910 to execute instructions, or storing data generated after the processor 910 executes instructions. Sometimes, the interface circuit 920 can also be understood as part of the processor 910, in which case the communication device 900 includes the processor 910.

[0296] When the communication device 900 is used to achieve the above Figures 4 to 7 In the method shown, the processor 910 is used to implement the functions of the processing unit 810, and the interface circuit 920 is used to implement the functions of the transceiver unit 820.

[0297] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a terminal device, the terminal device chip implements the functions of the terminal device in the above method embodiments. The terminal device chip receives information from a network device, which can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as an RF module or antenna) in the terminal device, and then sent to the terminal device chip by these modules. The terminal device chip sends information to a network device, which can be understood as the information being first sent to other modules (such as an RF module or antenna) in the terminal device, and then sent to the network device by these modules.

[0298] When the aforementioned communication device is a chip applied to a network device, the network device chip implements the functions of the network device in the above method embodiments. The network device chip receives information from the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being first received by other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, and then sent to the network device chip by these modules. The network device chip sends information to the terminal device, which can be understood as the information being sent down to other modules (such as radio frequency modules or antennas) in the network device, and then sent to the terminal device by these modules. Here, the network device module can be the baseband chip of the network device, or a DU (Digital Unit) or other modules. The DU here can be a DU under the Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) architecture.

[0299] In this application, entity A sends information to entity B, either directly or indirectly through other entities. Similarly, entity B receives information from entity A, either directly or indirectly through other entities. Entities A and B can be network devices or terminal devices, or modules within network devices or terminal devices. The sending and receiving of information can be between network devices and terminal devices, between two network devices (e.g., CU and DU), or between different modules within a single device (e.g., a terminal device chip and other modules within the terminal device, or a network device chip and other modules within the network device).

[0300] It is understood that the processor in the embodiments of this application may be a central processing unit (CPU), or other general-purpose processors, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other programmable logic devices, transistor logic devices, hardware components, or any combination thereof. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor.

[0301] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program that, when executed by a computer, enables the computer to perform the aforementioned communication method. Alternatively, the computer program includes instructions for implementing the aforementioned communication.

[0302] This application also provides a computer program product, including: computer program code, which, when run on a computer, enables the computer to execute the communication method provided above.

[0303] This application also provides a communication system, which includes: an access network device and a first network element that execute the above-described communication method; or, a first access network device and a second access network device that execute the above-described communication method; or, a first access network device and a third access network device that execute the above-described communication method.

[0304] The method steps in the embodiments of this application can be implemented in hardware or by a processor executing software instructions. The software instructions can consist of corresponding software modules, which can be stored in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, erasable programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory, registers, hard disks, portable hard disks, compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or any other form of storage medium known in the art. An exemplary storage medium is coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to read information from and write information to the storage medium. Of course, the storage medium can also be a component of the processor. The processor and storage medium can reside in an ASIC. Alternatively, the ASIC can reside in a base station or terminal. Of course, the processor and storage medium can also exist as discrete components in the base station or terminal.

[0305] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved entirely or partially through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented using software, it can be implemented entirely or partially in the form of a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs or instructions. When the computer program or instructions are loaded and executed on a computer, the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this application are performed entirely or partially. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, a network device, a first control plane network element, a user equipment, or other programmable device. The computer program or instructions can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transmitted from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program or instructions can be transmitted from one website, computer, server, or data center to another website, computer, server, or data center via wired or wireless means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium that a computer can access or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available medium can be a magnetic medium, such as a floppy disk, hard disk, or magnetic tape; it can also be an optical medium, such as a digital video optical disc; or it can be a semiconductor medium, such as a solid-state drive. The computer-readable storage medium may be a volatile or non-volatile storage medium, or may include both types of storage media.

[0306] In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions between different embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0307] In this application embodiment, the number of nouns, unless otherwise specified, refers to "singular nouns or plural nouns," that is, "one or more." "At least one" means one or more, and "more than one" means two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can mean: A exists alone, A and B exist simultaneously, or B exists alone, where A or B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. For example, A / B means: A or B. Expressions such as "at least one of the following" or "one or more of them" refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b and / or c, or one or more of a, b and / or c, means: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, or a and b and c. Each of a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0308] The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" mentioned in the embodiments of this application are used to distinguish multiple objects, and are not used to limit the size, content, order, timing, priority, or importance of the multiple objects. Furthermore, such names do not indicate differences in the content, sending / receiving end, sending order, size, application scenario, priority, or importance of the two pieces of information. Additionally, the numbering of steps in the various embodiments described in this application is only to distinguish different steps and is not used to limit the order of steps.

Claims

1. A communication method characterized by comprising: Performed by a first access network device or a chip for use in a first access network device, comprising: sending a first message to a first network element, the first message being used to acquire address information of a second access network device, the second access network device satisfying a first condition; receiving the address information of the second access network device from the first network element.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, The first condition comprises one or more of the following: being located in a same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device; or supporting a first network slice, the first network slice being a network slice supported by the first access network device; or belonging to a first proximity group, the first proximity group being a proximity group to which the first access network device belongs. The area in which the first access network device is located in the same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device comprises one or more of the following:

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, being located in a first tracking area in which the first access network device is located; or being located in a tracking area adjacent to a first tracking area in which the first access network device is located; or being located in an area managed by an access and mobility management function network element in which the first access network device is located; or being located in a first radio access network notification area in which the first access network device is located; or being located in a radio access network notification area adjacent to a first radio access network notification area in which the first access network device is located. The first message comprises information associated with the first condition. The information associated with the first condition comprises information of a first tracking area in which the first access network device is located, and the first condition comprises that the second access network device is located in the first tracking area and / or in a tracking area adjacent to the first tracking area. The information associated with the first condition comprises information of an area managed by an access and mobility management function network element in which the first access network device is located, and the first condition comprises that the second access network device is located in the area managed by the access and mobility management function network element. The information associated with the first condition comprises information of a first radio access network notification area in which the first access network device is located, and the first condition comprises that the second access network device is located in the first radio access network notification area and / or in a radio access network notification area adjacent to the first radio access network notification area.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The information associated with the first condition comprises information of a first network slice supported by the first access network device, and the first condition comprises that the second access network device supports the first network slice.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, The information associated with the first condition comprises information of a first proximity group to which the first access network device belongs, and the first condition comprises that the second access network device belongs to the first proximity group.

6. The method according to any one of claims 4-5, wherein, The information associated with the first condition comprises access network device identification information, and the first condition comprises that the second access network device is for an access network device corresponding to the access network device identification information.

7. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein, The information associated with the first condition comprises first physical cell identification information, and the condition comprises that a cell corresponding to the first physical cell identification information is included in a serving cell of the second access network device.

8. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein, Further comprising:

9. The method according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein, ​ 10. The method of claim 4, wherein, ​ 11. The method of claim 4, wherein, ​ 12. The method of any one of claims 1-11, wherein, ​ receiving, from the first network element, address information of a third access network device, a serving cell of the third access network device including a cell corresponding to the second physical cell identifier.

13. The method of any one of claims 1-12, wherein, Further comprising: receiving, from a terminal device, a second physical cell identifier; sending, to the first network element, a second message including the second physical cell identifier, the second message being used to acquire address information of an access network device including a cell corresponding to the second physical cell identifier in a serving cell; receiving, from the first network element, address information of a third access network device, a serving cell of the third access network device including a cell corresponding to the second physical cell identifier.

14. The method of any one of claims 1-13, wherein, Further comprising: sending, to the first network element, a registration message including information of the first access network device, the registration message being used to request the first network element to store the information of the first access network device.

15. A method of communication, comprising: executed by a first network element or a chip for the first network element, comprising: receiving, from a first access network device, a first message used to acquire address information of a second access network device, the second access network device satisfying a first condition; sending, to the first access network device, the address information of the second access network device.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein, The first condition includes one or more of the following: being located in a same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device; or supporting a first network slice, the first network slice being a network slice supported by the first access network device; or belonging to a first proximity group, the first proximity group being a proximity group to which the first access network device belongs.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, The same and / or adjacent area as the first access network device includes one or more of the following: being located in a first tracking area where the first access network device is located; or being located in a tracking area adjacent to a first tracking area where the first access network device is located; or being located in an area managed by an access and mobility management function network element where the first access network device is located; or being located in a first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located; or being located in a radio access network notification area adjacent to a first radio access network notification area where the first access network device is located.

18. The method of any one of claims 15-17, wherein, The first message includes information associated with the first condition.

19. The method of any one of claims 15-17, wherein, The first message includes identification information of the first access network device, and the method further comprises: acquiring a first area where the first access network device is located according to the identification information of the first access network device; acquiring address information of a second access network device located in the first area and / or located in an area adjacent to the first area.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The first area where the first access network device is located includes at least one of the following: a first tracking area in which the first access network device is located; an area managed by an access and mobility management function (AMF) network element in which the first access network device is located; and a first radio access network notification area in which the first access network device is located.

21. The method of any one of claims 15-20, wherein, The first message includes identification information of the first access network device, and the method further includes: According to the identification information of the first access network device, obtaining a first network slice supported by the first access network device; Obtaining address information of a second access network device supporting the first network slice.

22. The method of any one of claims 15-21, wherein, The first message includes identification information of the first access network device, and the method further includes: According to the identification information of the first access network device, obtaining a first proximity group to which the first access network device belongs; Obtaining address information of a second access network device belonging to the first proximity group.

23. The method of any one of claims 15-22, wherein, Further comprising: receiving a registration message from the second access network device, the registration message including address information of the second access network device; and / or, receiving a registration message from the first access network device, the registration message including information of the first access network device.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein, Further comprising: sending information of the first access network device to the second access network device.

25. A communications device, characterized by A module for executing the method of any one of claims 1-14, or a module for executing the method of any one of claims 15-24.

26. A communications device, characterized by A processor coupled with a memory; The memory is configured to store computer programs or instructions; The processor is configured to execute part or all of the computer programs or instructions in the memory, and when the part or all of the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 1-14, or implement the method of any one of claims 15-24.

27. A communications device, characterized by A processor and a memory; The memory is configured to store computer programs or instructions; The processor is configured to execute part or all of the computer programs or instructions in the memory, and when the part or all of the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 1-14, or implement the method of any one of claims 15-24.

28. A chip system, characterized by A processor and an interface circuit, the processor being coupled with a memory; The memory is configured to store computer programs or instructions; The processor is configured to execute part or all of the computer programs or instructions in the memory, and when the part or all of the computer programs or instructions are executed, the processor is configured to implement the method of any one of claims 1-14, or implement the method of any one of claims 15-24.

29. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The storage medium stores computer programs or instructions, and when the computer programs or instructions are executed by a communication device, the method of any one of claims 1-14 is implemented, or the method of any one of claims 15-24 is implemented.

30. A computer program product, characterised in that, The computer program product comprises computer instructions which, when run on a computer, cause the method of any one of claims 1-14 to be implemented, or the method of any one of claims 15-24 to be implemented.

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